2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
Among the better years
The 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is among the quieter years of the PT Cruiser on NHTSA's books: 30 complaints (89% below the model's median year), no recalls, and no open investigations.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across engine (6), seats (4), and suspension (3), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect.
30
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
1
Crash-involved
4
Fires reported
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
How does 2010 compare to other PT Cruiser years?
What are the most common 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6 | 20% | ▼ down |
| Seats | 4 | 13% | — flat |
| Tires & Wheels | 3 | 10% | ▼ down |
| Electrical System | 3 | 10% | ▼ down |
| Steering | 3 | 10% | ▼ down |
| Suspension | 3 | 10% | — flat |
| Airbags | 3 | 10% | ▼ down |
| Lighting | 2 | 7% | ▼ down |
| Body & Structure | 1 | 3% | ▼ down |
| Brakes | 1 | 3% | — flat |
| Speed Control | 1 | 3% | ▼ down |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“I DROVE 15 MILES AN PULLED AT 55 MPH INTO OSKALOOSA IA REDUCED SPEED TO 35 DOWN TO 25 AN THOUGHT I SMELLED SOMETHING BURNING LIKE WIRES AN ANTIFREEZE ,BLACK SMOKE ROLLED OUT FROM UNDER NEATH MY HOOD ON PASSENGER SIDE PUT IN PARK POPPED HOOD OPENED HOOD FLAMES COMING FROM UNDERNEATH ENGINE IN FRONT…”
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PLASTIC COVERING OF THE ELECTRONIC DRIVER'S SEAT ADJUSTER DETACHED AND CAUSED THE DRIVER'S SEAT CONTROL MOTOR, WIRES, AND CLIP TO BE EXPOSED AND LOOSE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO HAVE A DIAGNOSTIC…”
“I DROVE 15 MILES AN PULLED AT 55 MPH INTO OSKALOOSA IA REDUCED SPEED TO 35 DOWN TO 25 AN THOUGHT I SMELLED SOMETHING BURNING LIKE WIRES AN ANTIFREEZE ,BLACK SMOKE ROLLED OUT FROM UNDER NEATH MY HOOD ON PASSENGER SIDE PUT IN PARK POPPED HOOD OPENED HOOD FLAMES COMING FROM UNDERNEATH ENGINE IN FRONT…”
“I DROVE 15 MILES AN PULLED AT 55 MPH INTO OSKALOOSA IA REDUCED SPEED TO 35 DOWN TO 25 AN THOUGHT I SMELLED SOMETHING BURNING LIKE WIRES AN ANTIFREEZE ,BLACK SMOKE ROLLED OUT FROM UNDER NEATH MY HOOD ON PASSENGER SIDE PUT IN PARK POPPED HOOD OPENED HOOD FLAMES COMING FROM UNDERNEATH ENGINE IN FRONT…”
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A BOULDER. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUFFERED CHEST AND BACK PAINS THAT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED…”
2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser — common questions
Is the 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser reliable?
Its record is better than the model's norm: 30 NHTSA complaints, below the typical PT Cruiser year, with 0 recalls and no open investigations.
What are the most common 2010 PT Cruiser problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are engine (6 complaints), seats (4 complaints), suspension (3 complaints).
Does the 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Which Chrysler PT Cruiser years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the PT Cruiser years to avoid are 2001, 2002, 2006. The cleanest record among PT Cruiser years belongs to 2010.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.